Volunteering at the Ames Public Library
Today is 8/29/2008
Every year, over 400 volunteers help support the Ames community by helping with various aspects of library services. We strive to match eager volunteers with rewarding positions to enhance the services and programming that Ames Public Library offers. APL Volunteer Services also works with court-ordered Community Services participants as well as library customers who would like like to address their fines by participating in our Fine Alternative Program.
Who can Volunteer?
Participants in Volunteer Services programming must be 11 years of age or older. Some exceptions may be made for groups of children completing service learning projects through school or other organizations. Additionally, because family volunteering is encouraged at APL, younger children are welcome to volunteer with their parents or grandparents .
How to Sign Up
If you are interested in volunteering opportunities, including the summer youth volunteer program, community service, and fine alternative programs, or would like more information, contact the Volunteer Services Coordinator at sbohlke@amespubliclibrary.org or (515) 239-5663.
Volunteer Opportunities
Ames Public Library has a variety of volunteer positions available for adults, teenagers, and families who are interested in making a positive impact on the Ames community and its quality of life. Here is a list of some of the volunteer opportunities available. If you have a particular interest or skill area not listed here, please talk to the Volunteer Services Coordinator about other opportunities.
Mascot
The APL mascot’s schedule is very busy with program commitments and he can use some help! Join our “mascot” team to fill invitations to fun area events. A mascot volunteer must be able to physically manage a heavy, hot costumer (i.e. maneuver around objects, animate character such as movements to songs, etc.) and be able to function without eye glasses. Our mascot is always escorted by APL staff.
Materials Processing
A volunteer is needed to keep on the large volume of media items (CDs and DVDs) needing to be cleaned and repaired. This volunteer shift is on Tuesday afternoons and is generally 2 hours depending on the number of discs to be processed.
Adult Literacy Tutor
Volunteer Tutors must be adults and preferably able to meet with students during the day. Tutors meet with students once a week for 30 minutes or more at a neutral location such as a study room at the Ames Public Library. Key skills for volunteer tutors are patience and a willingness to help another adult learn to read, write and do basic arithmetic. Educational support and materials are provided for the tutor/student learning pairs. Contact Melinda Thach at mlthach@dmacc.edu or by calling 239-5667 if you are interested in learning more about Literacy Changes Lives.
Weekend Circulation Aide
Volunteers assist APL staff in a variety tasks including processing returned Library materials, shelving media items, etc. Shifts in Circulation are usually 2 hours but this is very flexible.
TAG (Teen Advisory Group)
The Teen Advisory Group (TAG) helps the Library plan programs for teens and pick out books, movies, and music for teens. TAG meets on the1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 11-1 in the Community Room at the Library.
There are other areas of volunteer needs not listed here including special projects and events, so please ask about opportunities that may be of more interest to you.
Contact Us
For more information, call (515) 239-5663 or e-mail sbohlke@amespubliclibrary.org.